Easiest Free-form RPG System

[Kokoro]

First of all, I'm not really sure where this should go. Mods, please move this to the appropriate place if needed.

I would like to start a game, but I want a system that has mostly free-form, non-intrusive mechanics, and easy to pick up quickly. What recommendations would you have?

[orcbane]

Hey Kokoro,

I'm personally a big fan of Jason Tocci's 24XX RPG. The rules provide just enough mechanical framework to make it qualify as an RPG, but really get out of the way of storytelling. You only roll dice if there is some kind of risk involved in the action, otherwise it's entirely freeform.

The default is an SRD designed around sci-fi storytelling, but it's ultra-easy to reflavor to taste, which is on display from variety of RPGs hacked from it (including my own, as seen in my signature, which is free).

Other great systems with similarly low-intrusion mechanics include Breathless, Lumen, and Caltrop Core.

Happy gaming!

[Kokoro]

That looks like an interesting game system to play!

[Ladytron]

I am not sure this meets your criteria as it’s diceless, not free-form, but the Amber game might work.

[Kokoro]

I have searched high and low for that game, but could never find it. I know it was discussed a bunch on the old Guardians of Order website back in the day.

[orcbane]

Currently on sale at DTRPG: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/1447/Amber

[PaulK]

Another to look at would be the recently re-released Everway. Another world-travelling fantasy, but a very different setting and feel from Amber. When you want a randomiser, you draw from a tarot-like deck and interpret the card.